SKIING AND WINTER SPORTS
Securing travel insurance through a broker, particularly when engaging in winter sports, is imperative for comprehensive protection and peace of mind. Firstly, a broker offers personalised assistance in navigating the myriad of insurance options available, ensuring that the policy chosen aligns precisely with the traveller’s needs. This bespoke approach is particularly valuable for winter sports enthusiasts who may require specialised coverage for activities like skiing or snowboarding.
Moreover, brokers can provide expert advice on the nuances of winter sports insurance, helping individuals understand the extent of coverage for medical emergencies, evacuation, and equipment replacement. Since winter sports carry inherent risks, including the possibility of injuries due to the challenging nature of the activities involved, having comprehensive medical coverage is crucial.
In the unpredictable environment of winter sports destinations, weather-related disruptions or cancellations are not uncommon. A travel insurance broker can help travelers find policies that offer compensation for such unforeseen events, offering financial protection against trip interruptions.
Additionally, working with a broker simplifies the claims process. Brokers often act as intermediaries between the traveller and the insurance company, providing guidance and support during the claims procedure, which can be especially valuable when dealing with the intricacies of winter sports-related claims.
If you wish to go alone and get your own insurance, be aware that Insurance cover will differ if you’re skiing, boarding or taking part in other winter sports. Please follow our checklist below to make sure you are fully covered.
Have you:
- Ensured that your travel insurance policy covers winter sports?
- Checked that your insurance adequately covers all potential activity while on the slopes?
- Checked that your policy does not require a local guide and/or a helmet to be worn?
- Checked that your policy provides the cover that you need and that you can afford the excess?
Make sure you:
- Keep an eye on your equipment and if leaving skis outside a restaurant or bar you don’t leave them in pairs – if you mix and match them with a friends’ they are less favourable to a thief
- Read what your policy says about items left unattended – (left in vehicle, in public or even at a table), there may be exclusions. Ask your broker if you’re unsure.
Did you know?
- If you are not skiing with an instructor or guide you should check that the area and snow that you wish to ski is suitable for a skier of your level – get advice from the local ski school. Never ski or board in closed areas – it is extremely dangerous and insurance cover may be invalidated
- If you have a current European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) that remains valid or a Global Health Insurance Card these only apply to state provided medical care and many injury clinics on the slopes are private – check your insurance cover.
- Skiing and boarding is fun but its important to stay safe and follow local rules on the piste. The International Ski Federation has a ‘highway code’ for the snow to help everyone to stay safe on the slopes, and should be followed at all times. Find out more from the Ski Club of Great Britain.
